15 Comments

Thank you for sharing your results.

Like you, I'm over 60 and have gained a few pounds.

I've seen the ads all over the TV about this "miracle" drug. And as a pre-diabetic person, it does look appealling.

But as you describe some of the side affects, that a big no "thank you" from me.

I think weight loss in older persons needs to be evaluated with a back to basics plan.

Eat properly, move more.

And, most of us don't need as much food as we think.

In restaurants, have an appetizer instead of a meal.

And keep the alcohol on check.

Expand full comment

Unfortunately some of us can do all the right things and get little results. My own experience in gaining weight since around 62 stems from hormonal fluctuation, or lack of, I'm fairly certain.

I'm currently reading a book 'The Anti-Estrogenic Diet' by Ori Hofmekler. It talks about how production of estrogen changes and the lack of progesterone that once held it in check causes so many issues.

I truly believe there needs to be much work done in this arena for older women. So little is known, and even less is being addressed.

We're living longer and it's not just vanity but for good health this weight gain needs further research done. Thanks so much for reading and commenting.

Expand full comment

Absolutely. There is no one size fits all solution.

And women's bodies work differently from men.

I agree that more research needs to be done on aging diet requirements.

For me, less carbs seem to be they key.

But oh, pasta and bread are so comforting. Just eat to eat much less of those and eat more vegetables.

Expand full comment

Pasta is my comfort food for sure. I grew up on it, using salt and pepper, butter, and Parmazon Cheese. Today I eat it rarely but every once in a while... with garlic toast, amazing what a smile it brings :)

Expand full comment

Hey, way to go, Patti!

That honesty and vulnerability you be in each one of your article is a treasure!

Truly, I'm glad that you've found a way out of the weight-gaining hell you and your body were in.

Not so weird indeed that it existed alongside your newly blissful married life with Carl.

As for aging having an effect on weight, I'm not so sure.

We take in and buy so many points of view, even scientific and medical ones, about this that they become our body's reality.

Each one of our bodies are so different, there's no general rule that can apply to them.

Everything changed for my body (and me) from the day I started asking it questions and really listening to it. And acting on what it was telling me. It takes some practice, I can't deny it but it has changed my whole life into a playful and rewarding relationship with my body...and myself...and everybody around me.

Expand full comment

"As for aging having an effect on weight, I'm not so sure." It's a scientific fact that our metabolisms slow down as we age. We are bio-individuals and I think genetics and how efficient are systems run determines a lot.

I love that you listened and acted accordingly as your body changed! It takes me a hot minute to catch on to my own body prompts... and I love your zest for life... the world is a playground, all we have to do is remember to play! Thanks for reading and responding, I appreciate you.

Expand full comment

It's undeniable that our metabolisms change as we age.

It is just that it does not necessarily entail that we put on weight, or so many other things that are usually associated with aging.

Thank you to you, Patti, for writing and sharing those articles of yours!

Expand full comment

I can recall seeing ads for Ozempic but I never knew what it was for. Now I know. Ozempic seemed to have been very effective for your weight loss and cholesterol but came with side effects. Thanks for sharing both the pros and cons of this drug.

I agree with you that as we age gracefully, we should strive to do so with energy and vitality.

Expand full comment

Everything comes with a price tag. Sometimes cost doesn't justify. I was thrilled with the results, but whether I keep the weight off or not will determine if it was really worth it. Thank you for checking in, my friend.

Expand full comment

Great article! One of your best. And you confirm that that drugs might be bad news. White Russian! Reminded me of The Dude. I love it.

Expand full comment

Thank you... The Dude sounds interesting. I only know of one other friend who drinks double, tall White Russians, they're the bomb!

Expand full comment

The Big Lebowski movie. It's a classic. Check it out!

Expand full comment

Great information to share! I ALWAYS read reviews before buying, eating, drinking, etc. anything.

Not enough attention is given to the life and body altering changes that occur at menopause. The medical community needs to better educate women; I wasn't prepared for the symptoms (beyond hot flashes) and my gynecologist didn't adequately prepare me for it (imo). I refused HRT due to all the possible side-effects, but had to deal with the side-effects of menopause itself. Throw in three pregnancies (and not taking care of myself) and I gained 30 lbs. over 15 years. Yikes!

I'm currently reading/ following Dr. Mindy Pelz who wrote a couple books and teaches the fasting lifestyle (with not just weight-loss but overall health for women.) Yes, she sells things, but also explains the science behind what we as females are up against regarding hormones, metabolism, etc.

I've lost 10 lbs. in three months and it's staying off! I'm going to get 'back in the saddle' after the holidays and hope to keep the momentum going. I need to incorporate some weights and stretching along with a regular walking regimen, but I've gotten actual results this time. Interestingly, the longer one fasts, the more health benefits are achieved (the science behind this is fascinating!) You may want to check her out.

Expand full comment

I will definitely check out Dr. Pelz. I'm researching anti-aging and bio-hacking daily. We are being bombarded by chemicals... ever wonder why potato chips taste so good? Or Doritos? Food companies figured out how to hack our brains... the obesity and diabetes drugs level out and undo what the food does... it's' a vicious, insane cycle. There is a reason the United States has an obesity rate that goes well beyond the rest of the world. Being sedentary is part of it, but we consume dictates.

There is a lot to understand about our reproductive system and how it affects aging. I predict in 20 years what we've endured will be looked upon as barbaric. I hope I live long enough to see what evolves. In this day it is truly insane that we are still in distress and fighting what can be hacked to help us live vibrant and healthier lives.

Great comment, thank you for sharing your experience and the reading material.

Expand full comment

Oh I've got to check it out, haha. Never heard of it.

Expand full comment